Exploring the Limits of Electromagnetic Energy Density: A Scientific Inquiry

In summary, the conversation discusses the potential limit of electromagnetic energy that can be contained in a given area, taking into account the properties of photons and black holes. The answer to this question is not fully understood as it requires a combination of general relativity and field theory, which is complex and uncertain. However, it is believed that a black hole can still be formed above a certain critical energy density due to the relationship between gravity and energy. There is also speculation about the possibility of reaching even higher energy densities during the early stages of the universe.
  • #1
easyrider
89
0
Hi yall, I was just wondering, seeing as how photons are massless, would there be a limit to the amount of electromagnetic energy you can fit in a given (finite) area? Of course excluding the practical reasons that would stop you. And if there is a limit, how come? Because black holes are technically infinite density and yet they are massive so to speak.
 
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  • #2
The answer isn't entirely known as it requires a combination of general relativity with field theory which is difficult, tenuous, and uncertain.
Gravity responds to energy in general, not just rest mass, so (presumably) a black-hole would still be formed above some critical energy (density).
 
  • #3
It seems that, at a point it would become too much and start forming particle-antiparticle pairs. Although I would think during the very early parts of the big bang, if it wasnt already an infinite energy density then an unthinkably high density, that it would atleast be possible to attain ever-increasing energy densities since there was no matter quite yet?
 

FAQ: Exploring the Limits of Electromagnetic Energy Density: A Scientific Inquiry

1. What is the limit to EM energy density?

The limit to electromagnetic (EM) energy density is the maximum amount of energy that can be stored in a given volume of space. This limit is determined by the fundamental properties of the vacuum, such as the speed of light, Planck's constant, and the permittivity and permeability of free space.

2. How is the limit to EM energy density calculated?

The limit to EM energy density can be calculated using the equation ρ = (ε₀E² + B²/μ₀)/2, where ρ is the energy density, E is the electric field strength, B is the magnetic field strength, and ε₀ and μ₀ are the permittivity and permeability of free space, respectively.

3. Why is there a limit to EM energy density?

The limit to EM energy density is due to the laws of quantum mechanics. According to these laws, EM waves can only carry a finite amount of energy per unit volume. This means that there is a maximum amount of energy that can be stored in a given space before the energy density becomes infinite.

4. Can the limit to EM energy density be exceeded?

No, the limit to EM energy density cannot be exceeded. This limit is a fundamental property of the vacuum and cannot be altered or surpassed.

5. What are the implications of the limit to EM energy density?

The limit to EM energy density has important implications in various fields, such as quantum mechanics, cosmology, and engineering. It helps us understand the behavior of electromagnetic waves and the structure of the universe, and it also plays a crucial role in the development of technologies that utilize EM energy, such as lasers and solar cells.

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